WINDBER, PA (June 19, 2026) – JWF Industries hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 18 to celebrate the repurposing of its Windber facility and the strategic redesign of manufacturing space across its operations, positioning the company for significant future growth in defense, advanced manufacturing, and artificial intelligence-driven technologies.
The event welcomed community leaders, customers, partners, elected officials, and members of the JWFamily. Guests toured the facility prior to the program, which featured remarks from JWF President Will Polacek, U.S. Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), and Lieutenant General George J. Trautman III, (Ret.) USMC, before the official ribbon cutting ceremony and catered luncheon.
During the ceremony, William C. Polacek, CEO and Chairman of the Board, announced that JWF anticipates more than $500 million in additional contracts and long-term agreements to be finalized in the coming months.
“These opportunities represent one of the most exciting periods in our company’s history,” said Polacek. “In my 40 years in business, I have never seen this level of opportunity at one time. What makes this possible is our JWFamily of employees and their unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and supporting our customers and our nation.”
“With Father’s Day just days away, this milestone feels especially meaningful,” said Polacek, “I often say that JWF is family, and standing here today, I feel much like a proud father watching someone grow and succeed.”
The Windber facility project is part of a larger initiative to optimize operations across JWF’s ten facilities. Through strategic reorganization of production lines, manufacturing cells, and inventory management, the company has created more than 200,000 square feet of available manufacturing space to support future growth. JWF anticipates utilizing approximately 150,000 square feet of additional manufacturing space as new opportunities come online.
Representatives from key customers and partners, including BAE Systems, Kongsberg, Flyer Defense, Mack Defense, and emerging AI and data center companies attended the celebration.
Polacek highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence and advanced computing infrastructure to national security.
There is a common misconception that data centers only support commercial business needs,” Polacek said. “The reality is that artificial intelligence and advanced computing capabilities are becoming increasingly critical to our national defense and military readiness. We are in a data race today much like previous generations were in an arms race.”
As a result of the anticipated growth, JWF expects to create approximately 200 new jobs by December 2027, with the potential for an additional 50 jobs through its regional supplier network and business partners.
The ceremony also recognized the employees whose efforts have fueled the company’s success.
“These men and women are the reason we are here,” Polacek said. “They take pride in their work, pride in supporting our customers, pride in serving our nation, and pride in making a positive impact in our communities.”
The investment reinforces JWF Industries’ commitment to strengthening American manufacturing, supporting military readiness, creating career opportunities, and investing in the future of the region.
“This facility is not just about growth,” Polacek added. “It’s about creating opportunities within our organization, strengthening American manufacturing, developing partnerships and trust with our customers, supporting our military, and investing in the future of our region. This is what it means when the Work Fighters Support the War Fighters.”
The ribbon cutting marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for JWF Industries as the company continues to expand its capabilities, support critical defense and technology initiatives, and create new opportunities throughout the region.
For Additional Information Contact:
William Polacek, President & CEO: (814) 532-4116
Email: jtrabold@jwfi.com
